Hybrid hospitality is pushing the direction of real estate to revolve around mixed-use spaces and a service-centric ethos. A world where every property seamlessly incorporates elements of hospitality to meet the ever-evolving demands of its occupants and visitors.

These are exciting times – particularly if you’re a hotelier.

Mixed-use real estate is already here

In recent years, residential, commercial and recreational spaces have become more and more blended. This mixed-use real estate concept has grown increasingly appealing as urban areas become denser, and the boundaries between work and leisure blur. Hotels are at the forefront of this transformative wave, providing a compelling blueprint for the integration of services and amenities within a unified environment.

The concept of mixed-use real estate is far from new. Historically, cities like New York and London have embraced mixed-use spaces, with apartments above ground-level shops and offices, creating vibrant neighborhoods where people could live, work, and play within close proximity. However, today's mixed-use developments are taking this idea to new heights by incorporating hospitality-inspired features and services, reshaping the way we experience real estate.

The hotelification of real estate

As mixed-use real estate takes center stage, conventional property categories are adapting to encompass hospitality-inspired features. To stay relevant in this evolving landscape, real estate enterprises must embrace a service-oriented mindset across diverse property types.

Fully serviced offices

With remote work becoming increasingly prevalent, companies are reevaluating their office spaces to make them more attractive to employees who no longer need to be tethered to a desk from 9 to 5.

As a result, fully serviced offices are gaining traction. These offices offer flexible leasing arrangements, stylish and functional workspaces, and a wealth of amenities like fitness centers, cafes, and even on-site childcare. The emphasis is on creating a dynamic work environment that caters to the well-being and productivity of employees.

Apartments as hotels

In mixed-use developments, residential spaces are becoming more like luxury hotels. Residents can enjoy the convenience of 24/7 concierge services, on-demand room cleaning, and access to communal spaces that rival those of high-end resorts. The goal is to provide a lifestyle, not just a place to live. These amenities make residential properties more appealing to urban dwellers seeking convenience and a sense of community.

Retail spaces with seamless delivery

E-commerce has disrupted the retail industry, leading many traditional retailers to reevaluate their brick-and-mortar strategies. To remain competitive, retail spaces are integrating technology and embracing experiential shopping.

By incorporating delivery services into their physical stores, retailers provide a seamless shopping experience for customers who can browse in person and have their purchases delivered to their doorstep. Many mixed-use developments feature curated retail spaces that emphasize boutique and specialty stores, creating a vibrant shopping atmosphere that can't be replicated online.

Parking and transport

The rise of mixed-use properties is transforming parking into a service-oriented experience. Valet parking, once reserved for high-end hotels, is becoming the norm in mixed-use developments. This approach not only adds convenience but also maximizes the use of limited space in densely populated areas.

Furthermore, transportation options are evolving within mixed-use developments. Bike-sharing stations, electric vehicle charging stations, and easy access to public transit are becoming standard features, reducing the reliance on personal cars and promoting sustainability.

At your service

For real estate companies, embracing a service-driven approach should be top of mind if they want to remain competitive. This necessitates a fundamental shift in perspective. Property management can no longer be a passive, asset-centered business; it must be an active, service-focused endeavor.

Property owners and managers, therefore, must invest in the requisite infrastructure and personnel to deliver top-tier services that adapt to the ever-changing needs of their tenants and customers.

Five advantages of service-driven real estate

There are a number of benefits for real estate companies and their customers when it comes to embracing hospitality-inspired operations.

1. Better customer experience

By prioritizing service, property owners can provide occupants and visitors with a more enjoyable and seamless experience, fostering loyalty and encouraging profitable repeat business.

2. Increased property value

Service-oriented properties command higher premiums due to their additional amenities and convenience, ultimately elevating the overall value of the real estate.

3. Stand out from the competition

In an increasingly saturated market of mixed-use properties, those that prioritize service will stand out and attract tenants and customers seeking a superior standard of living and working.

4. More sustainable living

By reducing the need for long commutes and promoting alternative transportation options, mixed-use spaces contribute to sustainability efforts by reducing carbon emissions and traffic congestion.

5. Community building

Service-driven real estate helps foster a sense of community by bringing people together in shared spaces. Residents can connect with neighbors, workers can collaborate, and shoppers can socialize, all within the same space.

Conclusion

The real estate landscape is in the midst of a profound transformation. Hotels are leading the charge, setting the standard for mixed-use spaces that seamlessly integrate hospitality-inspired services and amenities.

This shift towards service-enhanced real estate offers myriad benefits, including enhanced guest experiences, increased property values, and greater competitiveness in an evolving market. Mixed-use developments are reshaping residential, commercial, and retail spaces, creating dynamic environments that cater to the needs of modern urban dwellers.

As the world of real estate continues to evolve, those who embrace the service-driven ethos will be well-positioned to thrive in this ever-competitive landscape. Hotels have shown the way, redefining how we live, work, and engage with the built environment. This means hoteliers are in pole position when it comes to attracting visitors, as they already have much of the infrastructure in place. The only question is how well they can harness their potential.

About Mews

Mews is the leading platform for the new era of hospitality. Powering over 5,000 customers across more than 85 countries, Mews Hospitality Cloud is designed to streamline operations for modern hoteliers, transform the guest experience and create more profitable businesses. Customers include Generator-Freehand, Strawberry, The Social Hub, and Airelles Collection. Mews was named Best PMS (2024) and listed among the Best Place to Work in Hotel Tech (2021, 2022, 2024) by Hotel Tech Report, as well as World's Best Hotel PMS Provider (2023) and World's Best Independent Hotel PMS Provider (2022, 2023) by World Travel Tech Awards. Mews has raised $335 million from investors including Goldman Sachs Alternatives, Kinnevik and Revaia to transform hospitality.

www.mews.com